Officer Francis Wilson, Cedar Rapids Police Department, Iowa

Officer Francis Wilson

Cedar Rapids Police Department, Iowa

End of Watch Friday, July 29, 1921

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Francis Wilson

Officer Wilson was off duty when he was shot and killed after joining the pursuit of an armed man who had entered a public library. A complaint was received about a man, who had threatened a group of boys playing ball on 9th Avenue. He pulled a gun on the boys when their baseball accidentally knocked his hat off. The suspect opened fire on Officer Wilson and two other officers when they confronted him in the Library. The other two officers were slightly wounded by gunfire as they subdued the suspect.

The suspect was convicted of second degree murder and sentenced to life in prison September 12, 1921. He died in prison on May 24, 1940.

Officer Wilson had been with the agency for 12 years. He was survived by his wife, son, and two daughters.

Bio

Age 54
Tour 12 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .45 caliber
Offender Died in prison

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Officer Wilson,
Even though it’s been over 100 years since your End of Watch you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Cedar Rapids. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

R.I.P.
USBP

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

October 12, 2021